Thomas Gould
Question:555. Deputy Thomas Gould asked the Minister for Justice for an update on Operation Tombola this year in Cork city. [42505/24]
View answerTuesday, 22 October 2024
Questions (555)
Written answers
As the Deputy is aware, each year in the run up to Halloween, additional efforts are made by An Garda Síochána to combat the illegal importation, sale and use of fireworks, under what is known as Operation Tombola. Operation Tombola is a national operation.
Each Regional Assistant Commissioner ensures that appropriate measures are put in place in each Division to prevent and detect the organised importation for sale of fireworks in the lead up to Halloween. This operation also focuses on preventing associated public disorder and anti-social behaviour through the incremental deployment of resources, including Garda Public Order Units to augment local plans as appropriate.
Policing plans under the auspices of Operation Tombola include an overt uniform presence and covert element where appropriate, and local Garda management engage with relevant stakeholders including the local authorities to identify, co-ordinate and implement an appropriate multi-agency strategy for the Halloween period.
Part 6 of the Criminal Justice Act 2006 gives An Garda Síochána the power to make arrests in relation to the possession of unlicensed fireworks. An example of the penalties faced include a fine of up to €10,000 and up to five years' imprisonment if convicted of having fireworks in your possession with intent to sell or supply.
Igniting fireworks or throwing an ignited firework at a person or property is also liable to the same severe penalty. These penalties demonstrate the seriousness attached to breaches of the legislation governing the importation and use of fireworks.
I am advised by An Garda Síochána that there have been no fireworks seized to date in the Cork City Division under Operation Tombola.
There was one incident recorded where fireworks were activated in the Douglas area of Cork City, and Cork City Units will continue to record all incidents connected with Operation Tombola.